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FRAUD ALERT: How to Steal Real Estate and Get Away With It!
By: Hugh Smith, Easton Maryland
This past February, a newer associate of mine at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate came to me with concern about an unimproved land listing in Caroline County, Maryland. This listing, received from a Broker-to-Broker referral, raised several red flags. According to the agent, she never met the sellers—they conducted all the business via voice and email. The notional octogenarian sellers were absentee owners.
The Initial Listing:
- The agent priced the lots at $150,000 on January 30, assuming both lots had valid “perc” approvals from the Caroline County Health Department.
- The “sellers” requested that no FOR SALE sign be placed on the property.
The Sting
- A week later, the seller called, now willing to accept the lower offer if the buyer was still interested. The Buyer saw a “DEAL” The contract was submitted to a local title agent for closing ten days later.
- The title company reached out to the seller, who claimed to be traveling in Texas and requested a remote settlement. A Notary Public was dispatched, and the signatures were verified.
- The Title Company closed the transaction and distributed wired the funds
The Bust:
- A Texas bank flagged the large wire deposit as potential fraud, impounding the funds. The real property owners, located in Washington D.C. suburbs, were unaware of the sale. The entire transaction was identity theft and wire fraud.
- Thanks to the alert bank, the fraudulent funds were clawed back, and the only loss was the “due diligence” monies expended by the buyer.
New Fraud Attempt:
- Four days ago, an associate forwarded a seller lead from Realtor.com to my attention: “Hello Mary, I have a property I’m looking to sell real quick. Here’s the address: XXX River Rd, Chestertown, MD 21620 signed Michael Hovey Michaelhovey4@#######.com”
- Checking public records, I found the property was not titled in “Michael’s” name. The real owners, absentee and in their eighties, were warned of the scam.
- “Michael” provided a burner phone and ignored my request for a power-of-attorney. He signed and returned the listing agreement instantly, requesting no FOR SALE sign be placed.
Conclusion:
- Yesterday, “Michael” inquired if “his” property was on the MLS yet. I informed him that the rightful owners had no intention of selling. I haven’t heard from “Michael” since.
- I reported the incident to the local police department, who advised me to try the FBI, though they are often overwhelmed. This advice was confirmed by our company attorney, noting the rampant nature of such scams on the Eastern Shore of Maryland
Key Takeaways:
Red Flags:
- Absentee owners, particularly the elderly, are prime targets.
- Unimproved lots are prime targets
- Sellers who refuse a FOR SALE sign.
- Remote settlement requests.
- Quick acceptance of significantly lower offers.
- Use of burner phones and avoidance of power-of-attorney requests.
A Plea for Vigilance:
I write this as a cautionary tale for fellow real estate agents and the public—especially unimproved lot owners in their seventies and eighties. Verify the bona fides of the people you are dealing with, and look out for red flags. This is also a plea to law enforcement at all levels to more energetically police the real estate sector, particularly wire fraud and identity theft.
About the Author:
Hugh Smith, ABR, SRS, PSA, RENE, has been a licensed real estate broker since 1983, serving the real estate markets of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. He is the Broker of Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate with offices in Easton, Chestertown, and Chesapeake City, Maryland.
A past President of the Mid-Shore Board of Realtors, the Founding and First President of Habitat for Humanity of Talbot County, Maryland, and a recipient of the Maryland Association of Realtors Community Service Award, he currently serves on the Maryland Association of Realtors Grievance Committee and the Housing Opportunity Committee.
Community Event Spotlight – Easton Outdoor Concert Series
Avalon Foundation’s Outdoor Concert Series
As the unofficial marker of the start to summer, the 2024 Avalon Foundation Outdoor Concert Series is about to kick off! These free concerts are a beloved tradition, taking place on Saturday nights on Harrison Street between Dover and Goldsborough Streets. The Easton Police Department will close Harrison Street at 5 pm, with the concerts starting promptly at 7 pm. In case of rain, the shows will be moved to the Avalon Theatre.
The Avalon Foundation is thrilled to present these concerts to the community, and their success is made possible by the generous support of Marquee Sponsors Talbot Arts, The Town of Easton, and Tidewater Inn.
Concert Dates:
Saturday, June 8 – Delmarva Big Band
Saturday, June 15 – Philip Dutton & the Alligators: Louisiana music from Satchmo to Chenier
Saturday, June 22 – US Navy Country Current: Bluegrass & Country
Saturday, June 29 – Patrick Alban with Noche Latina: Latin & acoustic rock
Saturday, July 6 – Saved by Zero: 80’s Dance Music
Special Event:
Friday, July 12 at 5 pm – Plein Air Easton Kick-Off Party: Stay open until 7 pm, provide raffle prizes, agree to pass out raffle tickets, and spread the word about the kick-off! The raffle drawing will be at 7:30 pm.
Note:
Saturday, July 13 – No Concert (Plein Air Easton)
Saturday, July 20 – No Concert (Plein Air Easton Quick Draw: 10 am-2 pm Harrison Street)
Concerts Continue:
Saturday, July 27 – USNA Zulu Brass Band: New Orleans style brass & percussion
Saturday, August 3 – US Navy Commodores: Jazz & big band
Saturday, August 10 – Three Penny Opera: Rock and roll
Saturday, August 17 – No Concert
Saturday, August 24 – Motown & More: R&B and Motown
Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is excited to celebrate this rich community tradition and the unofficial start to summer. Be sure to stop by our Easton office during the concert for refreshments!
We look forward to seeing you!
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise. If you are interested in exploring the possibilities of a new real estate career or office affiliation visit www.cbchesapeakecareer.com
Welcome Brittany Lombardi to Coldwell Banker Chesapeake
Welcome Brittany Lombardi to Coldwell Banker Chesapeake
Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is thrilled to welcome Brittany Lombardi to our team. Brittany brings over three years of top-notch experience in real estate, consistently demonstrating excellence in serving both buyers and sellers. Licensed in Maryland and Pennsylvania, she has a proven track record of success, making her a valuable addition to our team.
About Brittany
Brittany resides in Cecil County, MD, with her husband Michael and their two children, a daughter and a son. A proud graduate of Perryville High School, Brittany also served in the Army National Guard. She is deeply committed to her community, having served as a youth soccer coach and actively participating in the Adopt a Child program, along with various other community events aimed at supporting local youth. In her free time, Brittany enjoys spending quality time with her family, shopping, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Brittany’s passion for helping her clients achieve their real estate goals is evident in her work. Her dedication to community service is equally impressive, with significant involvement in initiatives like gathering back-to-school supplies for local children. We are confident that her expertise and community spirit will greatly benefit our clients.
For more information or to get in touch with Brittany, you can email her at brittany@cbchesapeake.com or call her at 302-766-0455. You can find Brittany at our office in the heart of Chesapeake City, MD. Coldwell Banker Chesapeake proudly serves the region with offices in Chesapeake City, Chestertown, and Easton. Welcome to the team, Brittany!
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise. If you are interested in exploring the possibilities of a new real estate career or office affiliation visit www.cbchesapeakecareer.com
Community Event Spotlight
National Music Festival ~ 10th Anniversary Year
Dates: June 2 – 15, 2024
Location: Various locations throughout Kent County
Website: www.nationalmusic.us
Festival Headquarters, Visitor Center: 122 N. Cross St., Chestertown, MD 21620
The National Music Festival transforms Kent County into a hub of music. This nationally recognized event features music to suit virtually every taste—from symphonies and chamber music to hints of jazz. More than 30 concerts and over 200 open rehearsals are scheduled throughout the festival in venues across the Eastern Shore.
In Historic Chestertown on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the festival brings together world-class mentors and gifted apprentice musicians on the cusp of their professional careers. The two groups rehearse and perform together throughout Kent County in orchestral and chamber repertoire. All rehearsals are free and open to the public. Some concerts are free; others require a ticket. From a solo violinist to full symphony orchestra concerts, from Beethoven to hints of jazz—the festival will feature music to suit virtually every taste.
This exciting season includes riveting music by Beethoven, Gershwin, Mendelssohn, Strauss, and Tchaikovsky. Several mentors will be featured as concerto soloists, among them guitarist Camilo Carrara (Vivaldi, “Concerto for Lute in D”), Emily Daggett Smith (Mendelssohn, “Concerto for Violin in e”), and Natalie Helm (Saint-Saens, “Concerto for Violoncello No.1”).
Connect
Phone: 443.480.0221
Email: info@nationalmusic.us
Box Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am-4pm
Sat-Sun: 10am-2pm
Beginning Thu, May 30, or at Festival concerts, one hour prior to concert time
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise.tea party festival
Congratulations to Wes Russum
Achieving ABR and SRS Certifications
We’re happy to share some exciting news with you all! Wes Russum, one of our exceptional realtors at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, has been officially certified as an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) and has also earned his Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) certifications. Let’s take a closer look at what these accomplishments mean and why they’re such a big deal.
ABR Accreditation
First off, what’s an ABR certification? It’s a credential that showcases Wes’s expertise in helping people buy homes. Think of it as having a trusted guide who knows the entire home-buying process inside and out. Wes’s ABR certification means he’s exceptionally skilled at assisting clients every step of the way, from house hunting to closing the deal.
SRS Designation
But wait, there’s more! Wes has also obtained his Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation. This designation is the gold standard in seller representation, demonstrating Wes’s commitment to delivering top-notch service to clients selling their homes. With his SRS certification, Wes is equipped to elevate professional standards and achieve outstanding results for his clients.
Beyond Real Estate
What sets Wes apart is not just his prowess in real estate, but also his deep involvement in the community. You’ll often find him coaching soccer, participating in local festivals, and supporting various charities throughout the shore. His dedication to both his clients and his community is truly commendable.
Hugh Smith, our Broker Owner, couldn’t be prouder of Wes’s achievements. He admires Wes’s dedication to excellence in real estate and his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the community. “Wes is an agent who will thrive in the new landscape of real estate,” says Smith. “His passion for serving his clients and his community sets him apart, and I have no doubt that he will continue to excel.”
With his expertise, personalized approach, and dedication to excellence, Wes ensures a smooth and rewarding experience for every client. Reach out to Wes directly at 410-829-5714 or via email at wes@cbchesapeake.com. You can also visit his website www.wessellstheshore.com to learn more about his services and view available listings.
We’re incredibly proud to have Wes Russum as part of our team at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, and we can’t wait to see all the great things he’ll continue to accomplish!
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise.tea party festival
Celebrating Excellence:
Spotlight on Katie Moore’s Recent Accreditation Achievements
At Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, we are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our dedicated agents who continuously strive for excellence in their field. Today, we are thrilled to spotlight Katie Moore, a distinguished member of our team, for her recent remarkable accomplishments in earning prestigious accreditations that underscore her expertise and commitment to her clients.
Achieving ABR Accreditation – A Milestone in Buyer Representation
Katie has successfully obtained the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation, a prestigious accreditation recognized across the real estate industry. This designation is awarded to real estate practitioners who have completed a comprehensive course in buyer representation and have demonstrated their commitment to providing exceptional service to buyers. With her ABR® certification, Katie is equipped with advanced knowledge and tools to effectively advocate for homebuyers, ensuring their needs are prioritized and met throughout the transaction process.
Elevating Standards with the SRS Designation
Further enhancing her professional credentials, Katie has earned the Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation. This premier credential in seller representation is awarded by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) to agents who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria. The SRS designation is a testament to Katie’s elevated professional standards and her dedication to enhancing her personal performance, enabling her to offer superior representation to sellers.
A Diverse Expertise
In addition to her latest accreditations, Katie is a certified relocation specialist, providing invaluable assistance to clients moving in or out of the area. She also holds certifications with AARP, Cartus Corporate Partners, and is a BEX Realty Certified agent, showcasing her broad expertise and commitment to serving a diverse range of clients.
Katie Moore at the ST. MICHAELS RUNNING FESTIVAL
Beyond Real Estate – A Commitment to the Community
Outside of her professional achievements, Katie is deeply involved in her community. She recently completed a half marathon at the St. Michael’s Running Festival on May 18th, demonstrating her dedication and resilience not only in her career but also in her personal endeavors. Katie’s involvement in various community events highlights her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of those around her.
Visit Katie at Our Easton Office
Katie Moore operates out of the Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate office located at 17 N. Harrison Street, Easton, MD 21601. To learn more about how Katie can assist you with your real estate needs, whether buying or selling, you can contact her at (443) 783-8181 or visit her website at www.sellingtheshorewithkatiemoore.com.
Join us in congratulating Katie on her achievements! At Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, we are proud to have agents like Katie who not only excel in their field but also contribute positively to their communities. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or find more information about real estate in the area, Katie Moore is here to guide you with her expertise and personalized service.
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise.tea party festival
TeaParty2024
Community Event Spotlight: Celebrating 250 Years at the Chestertown Tea Party Festival
As spring unfurls its vibrant hues along the Chester River, Chestertown is bustling with preparations for a landmark event, the 250th anniversary of the legendary Chestertown Tea Party. This year’s Chestertown Tea Party Festival, held over Memorial Day Weekend, promises a vibrant celebration of our town’s rich history and spirited defiance.
A Historic Recall of the Chestertown Tea Party
The story of the Chestertown Tea Party begins in the heated days of May 1774, when local patriots, inspired by Boston’s act of defiance, protested the British Tea Act. According to cherished local tradition, the townspeople of Chestertown boldly boarded the brigantine Geddes and tossed its cargo of British tea into the river, marking a pivotal moment in our nation’s journey toward independence.
While historical records from the period do not document this event, the spirit of that day has been embraced and celebrated by our community. It stands as a symbol of our shared values and commitment to liberty—a sentiment that resonates deeply within our town’s identity.
Festival Highlights: A Tribute to Tradition and Community
This year, the festival is not merely an observance of history but a lively and engaging community gathering. The celebration kicks off with a grand colonial parade down High Street. Spectators can enjoy the stirring sounds of fife and drum bands while watching colonial and British re-enactors march by in full regalia.
Further enriching the festival are the offerings of local civic clubs and artisans. Festival-goers can indulge in Eastern Shore favorites such as crab cakes and funnel cakes, or cool down with a cold beer. The craftsmanship and artistry of vendors from across the country will also be on display, providing a unique shopping experience.
A Reenactment to Remember
The highlight of the festival is the dramatic reenactment of the Storming of the Geddes. Using the schooner Sultana, a replica of a 1768 vessel, colonial re-enactors will recreate the historic tea-tossing event. This powerful reenactment serves as a vivid reminder of Chestertown’s bold stand against tyranny.
Engaging Activities for All Ages
The festival is packed with activities that cater to every interest. History buffs can embark on historic tours to delve deeper into Chestertown’s past. For those seeking adventure, the festival offers 10-mile and 5K runs through scenic routes. Additionally, a raft race provides a splash of excitement for participants and spectators alike.
A Community United by History
As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, the Chestertown Tea Party Festival is more than just a commemoration. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of our community. It reminds us of our collective heritage and the values that continue to guide us today.
We invite everyone to join us in Chestertown to experience this unique blend of history, culture, and community celebration. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Chestertown Tea Party Festival offers an opportunity to step back in time and experience the unity and courage that define our town.
For more details about the festival schedule and activities, visit the official Chestertown Tea Party Festival website or follow us on social media. Let’s make this year’s festival a memorable celebration of our history and community spirit!
Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is proud to spotlight the Chestertown Tea Party Festival as a pivotal part of our community’s cultural calendar. We support and celebrate the rich history and vibrant future of Chestertown and its residents.
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise.tea party festival
Celebrating Excellence in Real Estate
Melanie Hopkins Achieves ABR and e-PRO Certifications
We are thrilled to announce that Melanie Hopkins, a distinguished realtor in our Easton Office, has recently earned two prestigious certifications: the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) and the e-PRO®. These achievements highlight her dedication and expertise in the real estate industry, ensuring that her clients receive superior guidance and service.
A Leader in Digital Marketing and Buyer Representation
Melanie’s attainment of the e-PRO® certification from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) equips her with cutting-edge digital marketing strategies. This certification enhances her ability to connect with customers, expand her capabilities, and maintain client confidentiality, setting a high standard in the digital real estate landscape.
Moreover, Melanie’s accomplishment in receiving the ABR® designation positions her among over 25,000 professionals worldwide who are specialized in buyer representation. This designation is awarded to real estate professionals who have completed extensive coursework and demonstrated substantial experience in working directly with buyer-clients through every stage of the home-buying process.
A Trusted Local Expert
Not only does Melanie bring a wealth of certifications to her practice, but her deep roots in the Eastern Shore of Maryland and her comprehensive understanding of the local market distinguish her as a trusted advisor. Her attention to detail and commitment to addressing her clients’ needs make her an invaluable asset, whether servicing sellers, buyers, or investors.
Connect with Melanie
For those interested in working with an accomplished realtor who truly cares about your real estate goals, Melanie Hopkins can be contacted directly at (410) 310-2893, via email at melanie@cbchesapeake.com, or through her website at marylandeasternshoreproperties.com. Melanie works from our Easton office , and she can also be reached at 410-822-9000 for further inquiries.
About Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate
With a dedicated team of over 50 agents, three strategically located business offices, and the flexibility to serve clients anywhere, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake is uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled real estate services. Whether you’re in the historic town of Easton, the charming Chestertown, or the scenic Chesapeake City, Coldwell Banker Chesapeake has a local presence to provide personalized and region-specific expertise.
Mary Carlisle, Realtor earns ABR and AHWD
Congratulations Mary Carlisle, on earning ABR and ATWD certifications!
We are thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of Mary Carlisle, a valued member of our team of agents at Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate. Mary, based in our Chestertown office, has recently completed her Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) certification along with her At Home with Diversity designations, further solidifying her position as a top-tier real estate professional in the Eastern Shore region.
The ABR certification, awarded by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council of the National Association of Realtors, is a testament to Mary’s expertise in representing buyer-clients throughout the home-buying process. With over 25,000 professionals worldwide holding this esteemed designation, Mary joins an elite group of individuals dedicated to providing unparalleled service and guidance to homebuyers.
In addition to her ABR certification, Mary has also obtained the At Home with Diversity designation, which underscores her commitment to serving clients in a diverse and multicultural market. This certification equips Mary with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of today’s real estate landscape while ensuring that every client receives the personalized attention and support they deserve.
Hugh Smith, broker and co-owner of Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, expressed his pride in Mary’s accomplishments, highlighting her consistent productivity and unwavering dedication to enhancing her value proposition for Eastern Shore real estate buyers.
As a leading real estate professional in the Chestertown area, Mary Carlisle is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and results for her clients. Whether you are buying or selling a home, Mary’s expertise, integrity, and commitment to excellence make her the ideal partner for all your real estate needs.
For more information or to engage Mary Carlisle’s services, please contact her directly at (410) 703-3820 or via email at mcarlisle@cbchesapeake.com. You can also visit her website to learn more about her services and to view current listings.
At Coldwell Banker Chesapeake Real Estate, we are proud to have Mary Carlisle as a member of our team, and we look forward to continuing to serve the real estate needs of our community with professionalism, integrity, and excellence.
